Here are a few breastfeeding extras you may like to consider:
Nursing pillows: It is important to bring your baby up to the right level for feeds and to be well supported while you are feeding him/her. A nursing pillow on your lap will help. It can be used on your lap to support your baby or behind your back to give your shoulders extra support. My personal favourite: “My Brest Friend”.
Breast pads: If you're nursing, you'll almost certainly need breast pads to protect your clothing some of the time. You can choose between machine-washable or disposable pads:
Machine-washable: These cost more than disposable pads but are actually more economical if you intend to breastfeed for more than three months. They come with a mesh bag for the washing machine, so they don't get lost among your other laundry.
Disposable: Convenient but more expensive in the long term. Some new mums use them during the early days of breastfeeding before switching to machine-washable ones. Some have waterproof backings so that no liquid can leak through, but this may prevent air getting to your nipples if they are cracked or sore. You can also buy shaped, ultra-slim and "healing" versions. The last kind is specially designed to keep the nipple area moist and so promote healing.
Breast gel packs: These are designed to soothe engorged breasts. Most are designed to be cooled but some can be both cooled and warmed according to your needs.
Breast milk storage containers: These plastic containers come with measuring scales on the side and can be fitted with a teat when the milk is needed.
Breast milk freezer bags: These come with clips for sealing or zip up at the top and labels so that you can write the date on. Some can be fitted straight to bottles which are designed to be used with collapsible bags.
Breast shells: These are small, plastic cup-shaped containers which can be fitted inside your bra. They are designed to collect leaking milk while you are breastfeeding but can also be used simply to protect sore nipples from rubbing.
Nipple protectors: Soft plastic shields which protect your nipples while your baby is feeding. Most breastfeeding experts agree that they should only be used for a few days at a time.
Nipple creams: Non-toxic healing creams which aid healing in sore or cracked nipples. Lanolin-based creams are popular with many nursing mums and so is one which contains chamomile. Some high-street shops sell cheaper, own-brand versions.
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